Village Design Statements
A Village Design Statement (VDS) describes the qualities that residents value in their village and its surroundings and sets out clear and simple guidance for the design of development based on the village's character. It is an advisory document produced by the village community, not by the planning authority and, although it will not stop change from happening, it can help affect how any new building fits in to the village. Village Design Statements are intended to influence the operation of the statutory planning system so that new development is in harmony with its setting, and, makes a positive contribution to the immediate environment.
To date two parishes in the AONB have each produced and
published a VDS: Darley and Kirkby Malzeard (download copies from
the links below or request a printed version from Julia Lamb at
Harrogate Borough Council's Planning Division Tel: 01423
500600).
To develop the VDS both parishes held a number of consultation
events to gather the views of local residents as well as a
questionnaire and open day. Both VDSs have been adopted by
Harrogate Borough Council as Supplementary Planning Guidance to the
Harrogate District Local Plan.
If you want to find out more about Village Design Statements
in general visit www.countryside.gov.uk